Before COVID-19, farmers might have met for group discussions on a nearby farm, but on June 11 dairy farm employers nationwide will go online to fine-tune what they already know about being a good boss and holding on to valued staff.

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Tim Mackle is welcoming yesterday’s announcement of the Farm Debt Mediation Bill as an example of an initiative that will mean a lot to farmers who may be feeling financial pressure.

Winter can be a challenging time for farmers. Rainfall and cold weather events inevitably make things wet underfoot and managing those conditions is particularly challenging for farms whose paddocks are home to animals.

DairyNZ chief executive Tim Mackle has welcomed an increase in funding for mental health in yesterday’s Budget, saying he hopes the increased frontline services for mental health will include sufficient support for rural communities.

New Zealand dairy products help to support an improved quality of life for many, and, in some instances, to support life its very self. In other places our dairy products are more about pleasing palates, discerning ones at that.